Tips for MA?

[Izzie2104]

Hello all! 

So, I applied for an MA program at my alma mater, and hopefully I should be hearing back soon from the chair to see if I got admitted to the program (I think luck will sway my way). If I was admitted to the MA in Literature, what tips or suggestions do you have to help me maximize my chances for admission into PhD programs? What can I do to stand out as an applicant? I know that if I get accepted to the program, it will take me anywhere from 4-5 semesters (2-2.5 years) to finish the degree and also apply for PhD programs, so I have got to start thinking strategically as to where I could apply... and...
As for my research interests, I am not really sure what field of study I should dive into more, but that is why coursework in the MA exists, right? 

Any help is appreciated!